Potato-Crusted Mediterranean Meatloaf

This Mediterranean Meatloaf recipe brings a refreshing and flavorful update to a traditional comfort dish. Infused with a savory blend of ground beef and lamb, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and herbs, it’s like taking your taste buds on a Grecian getaway.

Topped with a crispy, golden potato crust, this dish delivers on both texture and taste. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive weekend meal when you’re craving something hearty yet elevated. Pair it with a side of roasted veggies or a bright cucumber salad for a complete experience.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef

• 1/2 lb ground lamb

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup milk

• 1 egg

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

• 1/4 cup kalamata olives, chopped

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 2 cups shredded potatoes (russet or Yukon gold)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.

2. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and milk and let sit for 5 minutes.

3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, lamb, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, feta, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.

4. Press the meat mixture into the loaf pan and smooth the top.

5. Toss shredded potatoes with olive oil and a pinch of salt. Press them over the top of the meatloaf in an even layer to form a crust.

6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and potatoes are golden and crispy.

7. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 55 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Kcal: 390 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Potato-Crusted Mediterranean Meatloaf: A Fusion of Tradition and Mediterranean Elegance

Few things are as comforting as a warm slice of meatloaf, fresh out of the oven. But this isn’t your grandma’s meatloaf, this is Potato-Crusted Mediterranean Meatloaf, an innovative twist that blends old-school comfort with bright, bold Mediterranean flavors. Imagine the juicy tenderness of beef and lamb spiced with herbs, briny olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbles of creamy feta, all crowned with a crisp, golden crust of shredded potato. It’s not just dinner; it’s a taste experience.

This dish strikes a balance between rustic and refined, and it’s become a favorite in many modern kitchens. Whether you’re making this for your family, entertaining guests, or simply craving a hearty yet sophisticated meal, this recipe checks all the boxes. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this meatloaf so special and how it fits into both traditional and health-conscious diets.

The Evolution of Meatloaf

The humble meatloaf has deep roots across many cultures. In America, it became popular during the Great Depression as a cost-effective way to stretch meats using fillers like breadcrumbs and vegetables. But variations exist around the world, from the German Hackbraten to the Italian Polpettone, each with its own signature blend of spices and ingredients.

What sets this Mediterranean-inspired version apart is the thoughtful use of flavor-forward ingredients. Instead of relying on ketchup or sugary sauces to flavor the meat, this recipe brings together fresh herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and kalamata olives, all staples in the Mediterranean diet. The result is a meatloaf that is naturally rich, savory, and deeply aromatic.

Why Choose Mediterranean Ingredients?

The Mediterranean diet has long been praised for its health benefits. It emphasizes whole foods, healthy fats, lean proteins, and a rich variety of herbs and vegetables. In this meatloaf, those principles are deliciously embodied:

• Ground lamb and lean beef provide a protein-rich base while adding complexity and richness.

• Kalamata olives add briny depth and bring heart-healthy fats to the dish.

• Sun-dried tomatoes introduce a tangy sweetness and a chewy texture.

• Feta cheese offers a salty creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the robust meats.

• Fresh parsley and oregano amplify the aromatic profile while offering antioxidants.

• Olive oil, used to crisp the shredded potato topping, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

This combination not only boosts flavor but adds a layer of nutritional value that sets this meatloaf apart from the conventional versions loaded with processed sauces and saturated fats.

The Star Element: Potato Crust

What makes this meatloaf truly stand out is the crispy potato crust on top. Shredded potatoes are tossed in olive oil and pressed into a thick, golden topping that contrasts perfectly with the tender, juicy interior. It’s reminiscent of hash browns meeting meatloaf, and the result is pure comfort with a satisfying crunch.

Not only does this add visual appeal and texture, but it also makes the dish feel heartier without being heavy. The crust acts as a natural seal, keeping the meat moist as it bakes and adding an irresistible crunch in every bite.

For an extra twist, you can even mix in grated Parmesan or fresh thyme with the shredded potatoes before layering them on top.

A Dish That’s Perfect for Any Occasion

This meatloaf is more than just a dinner staple; it’s a crowd-pleaser for every setting. Serve it as a centerpiece for a casual family dinner or elevate it with a glass of red wine and elegant sides for a dinner party. You can also make it ahead of time and reheat individual slices throughout the week for a quick and nutritious lunch.

Need to impress someone with a home-cooked meal that doesn’t feel boring or overly complex? This is your go-to. The Mediterranean flavors feel elevated, but the recipe stays approachable even for beginner cooks. Plus, it’s easily adjustable. Swap ground turkey for a lighter version or omit the lamb if you prefer a more classic beef-based profile.

Pairing Ideas and Side Dishes

To round out your meal and fully embrace the Mediterranean spirit, consider these perfect pairings:

• Greek Salad: Crisp cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and a simple olive oil vinaigrette bring brightness and acidity.

• Lemon Roasted Potatoes: If you’re a potato lover, double down! Roasted wedges seasoned with lemon and oregano are a hit.

• Tzatziki Sauce: This cooling yogurt-based dip pairs beautifully with the spices and rich texture of the meatloaf.

• Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers add smokiness and color to the plate.

• Couscous or Orzo Pasta: Light and quick to prepare, these are great carb options if you want to skip the potatoes on the side.

These sides can turn a weeknight dinner into a Mediterranean feast, offering balance, variety, and nutritional density without overwhelming your prep time.

Storage, Meal Prep, and Leftovers

Another reason to love this dish? It stores exceptionally well.

• In the fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

• In the freezer: You can freeze whole or sliced meatloaf for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

This makes it a fantastic meal-prep option for busy households or anyone following a structured meal plan. With its high protein content and balanced flavor, a slice of this meatloaf keeps you full, fueled, and satisfied.

Make It Your Own: Variations and Customizations

One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few simple ways to tweak it based on your preferences:

• Make it spicy: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture.

• Add greens: Mix in chopped spinach or kale for extra fiber and color.

• Use sweet potatoes: For a naturally sweet topping with a different texture.

• Make it dairy-free: Use dairy-free feta or omit cheese entirely.

• Make it vegetarian: Substitute cooked lentils and mushrooms for the meat. You’ll need to adjust the moisture content, but it can absolutely work.

Don’t be afraid to get creative. The Mediterranean flavor base is flexible and forgiving, just keep your textures balanced and your seasonings bold.

Conclusion

Potato-Crusted Mediterranean Meatloaf is the perfect example of how traditional dishes can be reimagined to feel fresh, modern, and exciting. With layers of bold flavor, texture, and nutrition, it transcends the boundaries of classic comfort food. It brings together everything we love about Mediterranean cuisine, olive oil, herbs, tangy cheeses, and sun-kissed produce and wraps it in the familiar comfort of a home-cooked meatloaf.

Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests with something new, this recipe is sure to leave a lasting impression. It’s rich without being heavy, packed with flavor but still wholesome, and, most importantly, it’s a dish that brings people together around the table.

So grab your apron, set the oven, and let your kitchen fill with the savory aroma of this Mediterranean masterpiece. You’re not just making dinner; you’re creating a story on a plate.